Harlan W. Lavin

Harlan “Hal” Walker Lavin, a devoted husband, proud father, army veteran, sailor, musician and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born on March 21, 1938, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Hal was the son of Sol and Elizabeth Lavin. He grew up in Philadelphia and some of his fondest childhood memories were of summers spent with his family on the beaches of Wildwood Crest, New Jersey, where he developed a lifelong love of the water and time with family.

Hal graduated from Central High School in Philadelphia before earning his degree from Pennsylvania Military College (now Widner College) in June 1960. He proudly served in the United States Army, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. Among the stories he most enjoyed sharing was the week he spent serving as escort officer for comedian Jonathan Winters during the entertainer’s visit to American troops – a welcome opportunity for laughter and camaraderie during a time of war.

Following his military service, Hal returned home in 1968 and, together with his wife Carol, built a life centered on family and hard work. They settled in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1973, where they raised their four children. Hal served for many years as Manager of Housing and Food Service at the University of Pittsburgh. During that time, he also earned a Master’s Degree in Labor Relations from St. Francis College.

After the children were grown, Hal and Carol began a new chapter in Knoxville, Tennessee, where Hal discovered a passion for bluegrass music. He loved attending bluegrass festivals and enjoyed learning to play both the guitar and mandolin.

Eventually the warmth of Florida and the call of the water drew him to Palm Bay where they made their home in Rhum Cove in 1999 and spent the last 25 years enjoying wonderful neighbors and a peaceful retirement.

Hal enthusiastically embraced many passions. A lifelong model railroader, he built a train layout in every home he and Carol shared. Sailing was another lifelong passion. Beginning with little more than a sail fastened to a canoe, he eventually owned a Dickerson 32 ketch, and sailed the waters of the Chesapeake Bay for about 15 years with good friends Dick and Jeri Glew.

Hal’s greatest passion was always his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Hal is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carol; his son Hal Lavin, Jr. and wife Denise of Pennsylvania; his son Greg Lavin and wife Barbara of Valrico, Florida; his daughter Lottie Mascadri and her husband Frank of Melbourne, Australia; and Suzy Devore McGuinness and her husband Dan of Tampa, Florida. His also remembered by his seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

His life was defined by service, integrity, kindness and love. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion of family, lifelong learning and finding joy in the people and pursuits he loved. His memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23.

Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 14, at 2 pm, at the First Presbyterian Church of Palm Bay, 1080 Port Malabar Blvd, NE, Palm Bay, Fl 32905 All are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to Brevard Zoo:

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